Devin Fitzgerald: The Next NFL Legacy Chooses Notre Dame – A Glimpse into Larry Fitzgerald’s Son’s Future

Devin Fitzgerald is heading to Notre Dame, following in the footsteps of his father, Larry Fitzgerald, a likely Hall of Famer in 2026. Devin, a three-star recruit from Arizona’s Brophy Prep, is ranked as the No. 55 receiver in the 2026 class by 247Sports.com.

At Notre Dame, Devin will join other legacies, including Jerome Bettis Jr. (son of Jerome), Elijah Burress (son of Plaxico), and Kaydon Finley (son of Jermichael). Together, their fathers boast a whopping 47 years in the NFL and over 2,400 receptions. Bettis alone has more than 13,000 rushing yards.

Larry Fitzgerald’s college journey also stands out. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2024. In 2003, he was a runner-up for the Heisman Trophy, losing to Jason White while edging out Eli Manning.

Devin’s commitment comes after a stellar junior season, where he caught 52 passes for 720 yards and nine touchdowns. He shared that Notre Dame first showed interest in him in May, impressed by his performance. A big part of his decision was his connection with receivers coach Mike Brown, who has known Devin since he was a child and played with Larry in the NFL.

“They believe I can step in and contribute right away,” Devin told ESPN. “Coach Brown has been a mentor to me, and I know I can grow under his guidance.”

Interestingly, Notre Dame and Pittsburgh won’t meet on the field until 2028, setting the stage for a unique dynamic. Larry will have to choose between his alma mater and supporting his son. “My dad’s advice during all this has been invaluable,” Devin explained. “He knows what’s important in making the right choice.”

Notre Dame’s 2026 recruiting class also features linebacker Thomas Davis Jr., the son of former Panthers star Thomas Davis. This blend of legacy players adds an exciting layer to college football. It showcases how the game’s tradition continues through generations.

As we look ahead, we can see a growing trend—more sons of NFL stars are making their mark in college football. This could reshape the recruiting landscape. The connections and legacy are proving to be powerful motivators for young athletes striving for excellence.

For more insights on college football and the impact of athlete legacies, consider checking sources like [ESPN](https://www.espn.com) or [NCAA](https://www.ncaa.com).

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